On Tuesday, February 14th, 2017 the New York State overwhelmingly passed legislation to raise the age from 16 to 18. This exciting motion followed a press conference held by Senate Democrats on Monday that specifically featured Raise the Age. Now we need everyone in Albany to work together to ensure that New York State raises the age with all of the best practices we have been advocating for.

Westchester Children’s Association (WCA) is encouraged by the momentum for Raise the Age legislation. Treating 16 and 17 year olds as children, rather than adults, in the justice system will positively impact the lives of roughly 1,000 Westchester youth every single year. Only comprehensive reform as laid out by the “Raise the Age NY” campaign will provide our county’s youth with the rehabilitative, therapeutic and educational opportunities that will help them turn their lives around. With the right supports youth are less likely to recidivate, therefore making our communities safer and giving our young people the chance for a productive, engaged future.